Planning Proficiency At The Paper Store

By Matt Pillar, chief editor

A look at how the 60-store specialty retail chain took control of its diverse merchandise mix and overcame the ups and downs of seasonality.

When Bob Anderson opened a newspaper shop in Maynard, MA, back in 1964, odds were slim he envisioned what the shop, appropriately called The Paper Store, would look like today. Fifty-three years and 59 stores later, The Paper Store has evolved into a unique specialty chain with a diverse assortment that includes gifts, greeting cards and custom stationary, fashion and fashion accessories, bath and body care, baby apparel, home décor, toys and games, gourmet foods, books, and more. It’s still run by the Anderson family.